I've pretty much come to the conclusion that I'm going to keep my 2004 GX with 115k on it. I was close to upgrading to a 2013 GX, but for now I'm going to stay put.

My GX still has the original shocks. I am not doing any work myself. Here are a few options from reading many posts here. At this point, I don't care is I lose the damping adjustment and I don't take it off-road. I do however tow close to 6,000lbs occasionally.

1. Have my local Toyota dealer install OEM 4-Runner shocks.
2. Buy Bilsteins online and have a local shop do the install. Not sure about the 5100 vs 4100 choice.
3. Buy another brand online and have a local shop do the install.

I know there isn't a cost effective direct replacement. I've read about using FJ and T4R shocks. My airbags are still working fine.

What is the best option for me?

 

Bilstein 5100!!

 

If I go with the 5100's, or the 4100's, which version is the best replacement? I remember a thread where one of the bolt holes had to be widened. Are any of them exact replacements?

 

The 5100s for 03-09 4Runner or 07 and up fj! They work for the gx, that's what I have.

 

How do the 5100s compare to others like the fox or Icon 2.0 for the rears? Fox and Icon are slightly more..

 

Any thoughts on what a high quality local shop would charge to install them? I know rates vary around the country, so an hour estimate is fine.

 

check t4r.org if you don't get a suitable answer here. even though there are a lot of DIY over there, there are a lot of members and I know that some have paid to have it done.

 

Most Bilsteins are going to be an entry level type shock, which is fine for most drivers. Fox and Icon shocks are going to be much nicer and more suited for abuse off road along with everyday driving.

 

Yeah, I'm just looking to restore the ride to be similar to what it started as. Anything will be a major improvement at this point.

I'm really looking for the best cost-effective replacement. I've owned my GX 7 years, and probably won't own it more than another 1-2 years at the most.

 

Go with a set of Bilsteins then, Ive had them on a few trucks before and they have always performed well. Not sure on the exact model but that should be easy to find with a little searching.

Good luck!

 

What about the KYB's designed for a 2008 FJ? At $40 it's about half the price of the 5100's. Would you consider using a place like Pep Boys to do an install?

http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/more...nid=484&jpid=3

 

Shock replacement is pretty straight forward. PB should have no problem.
Good timing for this thread. My front shocks were replaced by PO with oem. Now I'm seeing signs of leaking from rear shocks. The price of oem rears are absolute nuts. I'm considering Bilsteins at this time.